The IELTS Reading section evaluates a candidate’s ability to understand and interpret written texts. One of the most intriguing topics often covered is incidents or inventions spotlighting real-world complexities. In this particular article, we’re going to explore the story of the London Swaying Footbridge, an eye-opening case of engineering challenges and solutions. We’ll break down a typical IELTS Reading passage, provide detailed answers, and highlight common mistakes and difficult vocabulary to help you succeed in your exam.
The Case of the London Swaying Footbridge
In September 1996, the Financial Times, in association with the London Borough of Southwark, organized a competition to design a new footbridge across the Thames. Over 200 entries were submitted, but the winner was a collaborative team of Amp (engineers), Foster and Partners (architects), and Sir Anthony Caro (sculptor).
The bridge was officially opened to the public on 10 June 2000. Initially stable, it began to sway as the number of pedestrians increased. This movement intensified to the point that walking became difficult, forcing the bridge to close on 12 June for safety reasons.
Engineers identified that human activities like walking synchronized with the bridge’s movement, causing increased side-to-side swaying. Necessary measures for mitigating these forces were not well-documented, leading to an immediate research initiative backed by universities and research organizations.
Tests conducted at universities like Imperial College and the University of Southampton revealed critical information, but it was clear that only real-world tests would provide a comprehensive solution. Consequently, crowd tests on the bridge deck were performed, leading to a refined load model and eventual implementation of corrective measures.
The Reading Exam Questions
Questions 14 – 17
Identify four statements that were witnessed during the bridge’s opening ceremony:
- A. The frequency of oscillation increased after some time.
- B. All the engineers went to see the ceremony that day.
- C. The design of the bridge astonished the people.
- D. Unexpected sideways movement of the bridge occurred.
- E. Pedestrians had difficulty in walking on the deck.
- F. The bridge fell down when people tried to retain their balance.
- G. Vibration could be detected on the deck by the pedestrians.
- H. It was raining when the ceremony began.
Questions 18 – 22
Complete the following summary with no more than THREE words from the passage:
After the opening ceremony, the embarrassed engineers tried to find out the reason for the bridge’s wobbling. Judged from the videotape, they thought that __ and __ might create excessive force on the bridge. The distribution of __ resulting from human activities could cause __ throughout the structure. This swaying prompted people to start adjusting the way they walk, which in turn reinforced the __.
Questions 23 – 26
Complete the table below with no more than THREE words from the passage:
| Universities / People | Activity | Test at |
|---|---|---|
| footsteps, Limited ability to have 7-8 | ||
| Walking on the spot at | Not enough data on | |
| Crowd test conducted by | Aim to verify |
Answer Keys
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Questions 14 – 17:
- A. The frequency of oscillation increased after some time.
- D. Unexpected sideways movement of the bridge occurred.
- E. Pedestrians had difficulty in walking on the deck.
- G. Vibration could be detected on the deck by the pedestrians.
-
Questions 18 – 22:
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- Winds
-
- The pedestrians
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- Horizontal forces
-
- (Excessive dynamic) vibration
-
- Motion
-
-
Questions 23 – 26:
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- Imperial College
-
- Normal forward walking
-
- The Arup engineers
-
- The design assumptions
-
Common Mistakes in Similar Reading Passages
- Misreading keywords: Words like “sway,” “oscillation,” and “vibration” are often confused. Carefully distinguish between these terms in context.
- Ignoring specific instructions: Pay attention to limits on word counts when filling in answers.
- Incorrect paraphrasing: Ensure that the paraphrased answers retain the original meaning and fit within the context of the passage.
Difficult Vocabulary from the Passage
- Oscillation (noun): /ˌɒs.əˈleɪ.ʃən/: Movement back and forth in a regular rhythm.
- Excessive (adjective): /ɪkˈses.ɪv/: More than necessary, normal, or desirable.
- Dynamic (adjective): /daɪˈnæm.ɪk/: Characterized by constant change or motion.
- Stiffness (noun): /ˈstɪf.nəs/: The quality of being firm and not easily bent or moved.
- Damping (noun): /ˈdæmpɪŋ/: Reducing the amplitude of mechanical vibrations.
Complex Grammar Structures to Note
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Participial phrases: “Judged from the videotape,” implies information is derived.
- Example: “Judged from the sudden drop in temperature, a snowstorm is approaching.”
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Relative Clauses: “The bridge, which was opened to the public…”
- Example: “The plan, which was proposed by the committee, was approved yesterday.”
By understanding the structure, vocabulary, and potential pitfalls of a typical IELTS Reading passage, you’ll be better prepared to excel in your exam. Happy studying!